Why we Need Pre Heat Exchanger

[OilHunter]

Im just wondering since our pre heat echanger was bypass due to fouling. Why do we need pre heat exchanger before entering Heater Treater. Our emulsion is about 25 deg C inlet and exiting at 50 to 55 deg C.. Can somebody tell me on what purpose it is.

 

[SNORGY]

Indeed, you might not.

It might be a design optimization to offload treater duty and fuel consumption. It might help to some degree with separation / treating, or avoid the complications you might otherwise have with adding a demulsifier if your emulsion is difficult, but lots of plants and batteries don't preheat the feed and they work fine. The Process Engineer (if any were involved) would be in the best position to explain the rationale.

Regards,

SNORGY.

 

[OilHunter]

SNORGY,

I cant find the process and design engineer they are not connected to the company anymore..sad thing is they didn't consider the type of emulsion we are handling so it end up in fouling it is not Fit for Purpose. we dont face any problem in separation process still with in the specs. Demulsifier is not a issue this time.

 

[SNORGY]

OilHunter,

Sounds to me like you are right, then. You probably don't need the preheater.

Regards,

SNORGY.

 

[OilHunter]

SNORGY

thanks man but you know some people don't like the idea of modifiying an original design.